The Black Bane

The Chronicles of Mealduth #1

by Lucy Lyons

In a cursed corner of Avellion, a dark forest infected with the Black Bane spells death to all who enter — except one…

When an old priest arrives at Kailas Darkchar’s door with a bag of gold, she’s right to be suspicious. His ancient sect is rumoured to practise dark magic.

The priest claims Kailas has the power to enter the forest and retrieve the bones of his god. But not even the money she so desperately needs is enough to convince her. A member of a despised race, she’s lived her life in the shadows, believing her unique immunity to magic is useless in a world that embraces it.

Forced to flee for her life, she meets a powerful stranger with eyes of gold who promises to protect her. But can he be trusted, or is he part of a darker scheme?

Hunted by an army of holy warriors intent on fulfilling their ancient prophecy, Kailas is the only one who can stop the world from being plunged into darkness — and that may cost her soul…

Genres: Fantasy

356 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 31, 2025

About the author

Lucy Lyons worked in London as an editorial illustrator before realising she loved writing novels so much, she wanted to do that full-time.

She writes the nostalgic nineties Alex Martin Cozy Mystery series as Lucy Lyons, and her epic fantasy series - the Chronicles of Mealduth - as L. Lyons.

She now lives in leafy Surrey with her illustrator husband, two grown-up boys and a bearded dragon called Pancake. When she’s not at her desk writing, she loves to escape into the garden and other worlds.

Reviews

[Clemens Schoonderwoert · Rating 5 out of 5]

This very remarkable fantasy tale is the 1st part of the Chronicles of Mealduth trilogy, produced by the very talented author called, Lucy Lyons.

At the beginning of the book you'll find a map of North West Avellion with Mealduth right in the heart if it, while at the end of the book there's info about the realisation of this book and a Glossary that's also very useful in understanding this wonderful fantasy story.

Storytelling is excellent, all characters are very believable and lifelike in their interactions, making this story in regard to David Gemmell's books in almost the same wonderful league of fantasy.

This book is a great fantasy story with Kailas Darkchar of Mealduth as our main protagonist, a young woman with a special power, but she will assisted throughout this adventure by Vargassa, Jerräk, Tarin Hearthless and Helsene in particular.

Together they have to fight a vicious enemy called Mayqsa and their vile God Mayaqdor, while a traitor will also play an important part in this great fantasy tale.

What is to follow is a wonderful intriguing fantasy tale, with great interaction from start to finish, and while this is part one of a trilogy, there's more to come in the future, and I look forward to it.

Highly recommended, for this is a fantastic start of this trilogy, see inside this book for info, and that's why I like to call this 1st outing: "A Fabulous Fantasy Read"!

[Jonathon Jones · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is great for people who enjoy epic fantasies like LOTR and the Wheel of Time. It is not a romance fantasy, so please don't go into it thinking that it could be. There in only a very minor hint of that with side characters, but it isn't expanded on much. I did know that going in, but I want to tell people who might be interested in reading this book. It has a lot of action, adventure, and storytelling, which is great! There were points that were slow paced and then others that were fast paced, but other than that, it was an enjoyable read!

[Ovium_Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

When people say don't judge a book by its cover, show them this one. Because this cover is absolutely epic. And it's what captured my attention before I even knew what this was about! And let's get into this!

The Black Bane is very fast paced and really easy to get locked into reading it. For fans of a heavy plot driven book, this is for you! While there's isn't a ton of character development, the storytelling is very high speed in building tension throughout. You know right from the start, you're in for the long haul.

The world building is unique and does a great job at setting up not just this story, but establishing a solid foundation for what's to come in the series. The writing came off as very scenic and vivid so tapping into this for mental imagery was very easy and enjoyable. The action and magic scenes were some of my favorite moments of this! The only downside I had with this was that I didn't really connect with any of the characters and had no real investment in them.

If you're looking for a plot driven classic fantasy, look no further. The Black Bane was a great time and I look forward to seeing what comes next in The Chronicles of Mealduth.

[Graham | The Wulvers Library]

I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this from the author. That cover alone is enough to love this book!

The Black Bane, the new novel from L. Lyons, is described as being for fans of LOTR, Wheel of Time, and classic epic fantasy so of course I jumped at the chance to read it.

This was exactly what it said on the tin: an epic, adventure-filled fantasy that didn't hold back on its story. I really enjoyed that instead of the magic being the main focal point here, it was the immunity to magic that shone. This allowed for some interesting story points and it was a breath of fresh air to read.

I will say that the pacing was off at times and some character development may have suffered from it. Some parts were slower when they should have been a big tighter, and I'd have liked a larger section in places like the wedding, for example. But the characters we did see were strong and had their own personalities so it didn't suffer too much from that.

There is a lot here for classic fantasy readers to pick up and it sets up the next book incredibly. I recommend this for those wanting new adventure and those who want to start reading fantasy.

[Annie♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I rate this a 4.25.

The Black Bane is a fast-paced fantasy that throws you straight into the story and doesn’t slow down. It follows a woman with a rare ability in a magic-driven world who gets pulled into a dangerous mission involving a cursed forest, fanatical faith, and forces that should have stayed buried.

The pacing is one of the book’s biggest strengths. From page one there’s constant momentum, with action that’s easy to follow and always feels purposeful. Even the quieter moments carry tension, so the story never loses its grip. What I ended up loving most, though, wasn’t just the action — it was the friendships that form along the way.

Overall, this was an engaging, action-heavy read that kept me hooked all the way through. If you enjoy fantasy that moves fast, hits hard, and doesn’t play it safe, The Black Bane is absolutely worth picking up.

[my_two_books · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Black Bane by L. Lyons

Before I even get into the story, can we look at that cover?
🔥🔥🔥

What an absolute blast of a read. This is not one for the faint-hearted. I love when fantasy feels fresh and modern, and The Black Bane delivers exactly that. One of the most intriguing aspects is the protagonist’s power—or lack thereof. Instead of wielding magic, she nullifies it, voiding the magic around her, which is such a compelling twist on the genre.

This book is definitely for plot-driven readers. The fast-paced, high-speed storytelling builds constant tension and creates a very much hold your breath, you’re in it for the long haul kind of experience. The first half leans heavily into mystery, which I really enjoyed, while the second half peels back those layers one revelation at a time.

L. Lyons has a real talent for painting vivid scenes, and her prose perfectly matches the urgency and momentum of the plot. While I didn’t connect as deeply with the characters—especially the side characters—the sheer drive of the story carries you forward and keeps you invested in the journey.

The world-building is unique and full of promise, setting a strong foundation for the rest of the series.

I’d highly recommend The Black Bane to readers who love plot-driven fantasy, inventive twists on the chosen-one trope, and a modern take on a classic genre.

What's also great to know is that this is in the SPFBO this year, and L.Lyons is currently working kn the fourth book in the series, very much looking forward to The Dead Spell.

🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟

[lookmairead]

Read for SPFBO 11 // Team Before We Go Blog

RTC

[Sonny Kohet · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. Great story and well-defined characters. Love the story from start to finish. Intriguing and unpredictable, but utterly believable.
Despite its genre, the author has created a world which is intriguing and believable, I could say much more, but I don't want to risk giving the twists away.
Highly recommended, I would give it 6 stars if I could.

[Robin Ginther-Venneri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: The Black Bane: The Chronicles of Mealduth: Book 1
By L Lyons
Publisher: Twist House Books
Published Date: December 31, 2025
ASIN: B0G937GKZB
Page Count: 357
Triggers: Violence, peril, dark magic themes, religious extremism vibes, “the forest wants you dead” energy (keep an eye out if that’s a nope for you)
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ ⭐️
Skull Dread Rating: 💀💀

What Did I Just Walk Into?
A cursed forest that collects bodies like it’s a hobby, a protagonist who is the one person who can stroll in without immediately turning into a cautionary tale, and a whole lot of prophecy-fueled chaos chasing her down like it’s on a schedule.

Here’s What Slapped:
The classic epic fantasy setup done with confidence: danger, destiny, and a main character who very much did not ask for this.
Action and adventure that actually feel adventurous, not just “walking while grim.”
The magic immunity angle is a fun switch-up because it makes power feel complicated instead of convenient.
Strong “bigger world beyond the page” vibes, the kind that make you feel like there’s lore hiding in every shadow.

What Could’ve Been Better:

The pacing does the epic fantasy thing where it occasionally takes a scenic route. Sometimes that works.

A few slower stretches could have hit harder with slightly tighter momentum, especially between the high-action beats.

Perfect for Readers Who Love:
Big quest energy and classic epic fantasy bones
LOTR and Wheel of Time style “fate is heavy” storytelling
Prophecies, holy-warrior pressure, and morally messy choices
Fantasy that prioritizes plot, worldbuilding, and adventure over romance

Sum up
This one feels like stepping into a dark, ancient legend where the world is huge, the stakes are mean, and the main character is sprinting toward a destiny she never wanted, but can’t outrun.

Reviewed by Robin for Robin’s Review

[Joel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Curse-blighted woods, a dark god and his army of religious fanatics vs. an underdog heroine and her band of cool fantasy friends? SIGN. ME. UP.

I'm struggling to think of the words that will do justice to this book. The word 'Epic' is tossed around a lot in the fantasy genre but that really is what this story is. From the grimy, industrial gloom of Mealduth to the shining spires of Ordasius - Avellion felt like a living, breathing REAL place. Descriptions of things as simple as taverns and markets made me wish I could just jump into the book and explore for myself.

Kailas was a brilliant protagonist, as well as the various companions she meets along the way. Even the gross, rude adversaries she encountered felt like fully fleshed-out people you would meet in real life. Which leads me on to give a special mention to the villains of the story who are the nastiest, grossest, most repulsive ones I've had the pleasure of reading about. Villains are usually my favourites in stories but these ones really take the cake. One particularly dark moment moment stood out to me where I actually had goosebumps on my arms - right before the protagonist also did. Fantastical forces of darkness.

This book is brilliant. For lovers of swords and sorcery, big-scale fantasy with loveable heroes and sinister villains this is a must read. It was so hard to put this book down and I simply cannot wait for the day I can pick up book 2 and return to this world.

5. stars.

[K · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this via NetGalley.

3.5/5 stars. This book was described as right up my alley, for people who enjoy LOTR and epic fantasy. As the first in a series, it did introduce the world very well. I would give this book a try if you enjoy epic fantasy but fair warning that the pacing was a bit slow for me.

The culture and premise were written very well and have a lot of potential. Side characters were well fleshed out. However, the pacing of this story was a bit slow in places, especially at the start (especially after a very punchy and interesting prologue!). Our main character didn't quite feel like an agent of this story; it seemed that side characters were dragging her along through the plot. I enjoy a reluctant hero, but this felt more like the world was happening to her and not with her. When she did make decisions, they seemed heavily influenced by whichever other character spoke to her last.

Also, a few different times throughout this book a new, interesting side character was introduced and made a connection with Kailas, and then was immediately pulled away for a few or more chapters. I recognize that this is an epic fantasy with a large cast of characters, but I didn't find the MC as interesting as many of the other characters.

Again, I'd give this a try if you enjoyed series like the Wheel of Time, because the world building was great.

[Red · Rating 4 out of 5]

Minor Spoilers Ahead

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book directly from the author. This novel is also an entrant in SPFBO, and I genuinely think it deserves its place in the competition.

Black Bane turned out to be a fantastic read. While there were a few moments where the pacing slowed down, the overall experience more than made up for it—largely because of Kailas and the way her character evolves throughout the story.

From the very beginning, Kailas is pushed into choices that never truly feel like her own. She’s manipulated, boxed in, and constantly reacting to forces far beyond her control. Watching her gradually reclaim her agency, especially as the story approaches its climax, is one of the book’s strongest elements. Her growth feels earned, and it gives the ending real emotional weight.

The world Lucy Lyons builds is another highlight. It blends classic fantasy with subtle touches of science fiction, creating a setting that feels both familiar and refreshingly unique. It’s the kind of world that invites curiosity without overwhelming the reader.

Overall, Black Bane is a compelling character‑driven fantasy with memorable moments and a satisfying arc. I’d give it a 3.75 out of 5.

[Therearenobadbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.3 Kailas is a character who is thrown into a terrible struggle among religious fanatics and the summoning of evil underlords. She has a unique trait. She is immune to magic, which makes her unique and a prize. She is the only one who can enter the forest and withstand the curses and terrible magic in the place where the underlord's bones lie. While many see her as a tool and want her only to advance their own agenda, she will have to choose the least of all evils to accompany. For a long time, she will be a passive, classic reluctant hero, with plot twists that don't go her way, and her actions will not drastically impact the plans. She will depend on others who have the power and the knowledge of this "game" until it's her time to act. This first book is a great intro to the world and the religious/political games that move the society. It has a lot of characters, so I appreciate that the author provided a list at the end with all the most relevant names. But still, sometimes the pacing was too fast, and I don't connect with them as much to feel the emotional loss. I like Tarin and Ancier (yes, him too) a lot too, and the action of the last chapters.

[L.N. Hunter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I tend to avoid books that have maps and glossaries, but I'm happy to say that while they're present in The Black Bane, they're not necessary for the enjoyment of the story as, for example, the new words' meanings are fairly evident from their context.

Anyway, on to the story: a rip-roaring romp through a fantasy world where a cursed forest mutates and destroys visitors, so only someone immune to magic can possibly get to the core of it, something both the good guys and the bad guys want the book's heroine to do. With plenty of twists and turns and only a small amount of downtime between the action scenes (some of which were perhaps a little too quick), this is a quick and engaging read, though I did find the final chapter a little anti-climactic. I had expected a bit more of a tease for the next book in the series, which I hope won't take as long to appear as Ms Lyons explains this one took.

[Carina_inkdrinker · Rating 4 out of 5]

One Prophecy, a terrible curse, a chosen one and some terrible gods.

The Black Bane is Lucy Lyons second series set in a dark fantasy world. Where you follow a awesome and hated female character in her forced adventure, where she will meet friends and enemies in every corner. 

First book in The Chronicles of Mealduth, is a very plot driven story with tons of action from the start to the finish line. To make it easy to get lost in and get you quickly trough it. 

I do wish we had maybe 100-200 more pages, as I wanted to spend more time in the early places in the start to learn and see more about the world. And to also learn more about the characters background. But that's maybe something that comes later in the series. 

I think this is gonna be a great series for those who loves a good adventure or wants to dip into the epic fantasy genre.

[Brynne Reilly · Rating 2 out of 5]

2 stars out of 5

This book unfortunately wasn’t my cup of tea. I felt the pacing was rushed and that the character development suffered for it. Any mundane questions that the reader had were asked by the main character and immediately answered which felt odd. I did find the premise interesting and I do think the idea behind the book is promising.

This book felt like one I would have attempted to write in high school, one-dimensional characters, a female main character (that could easily substitute myself as) who is a reluctant hero who saves the day with her mysterious powers. That being said, I would have LOVED this book when I was in high school.

I really hope this book finds the audience that will love it much better than I did.

[James R · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Black Bane is a solid fantasy story. If you're looking for a compelling conflict against an aggressive evil, you'll find it here.

Kailas is a fun reluctant protagonist with a curious ability. Jerräk and Vargassa are an unlikely but interesting duo. The enigmatic Ancier is powerful and capable, but he holds a secret of his own. The Mayqsa work with a terribly evil purpose, and don't hold back.

There's plenty here to keep a reader guessing, but nothing is contrived or ill-motivated. Even the shape of the world itself fits well with the story. There's a great and varied cast of characters, each with their own motivations that are often at cross-purposes.

Get the book! It's a fun read from start to finish.

[Christopher · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is epic fantasy done right. Take one reluctant girl from a despised race, a renegade holy warrior, and a religious sect hell bent on raising their god, and you have a glorious adventure that is old school in flavour, with undertones of David Gemmell, Robert Jordan and George RR Martin. There's no need to 'get into' this book. It takes off from Page 1 and immerses you in the world immediately. The city of Mealduth gives off a flavour of Dickens' Hard Times and I hope the author shows more of the city in Book 2. L. Lyons is definitely an author to watch.

[Mappy BookGirl · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a fantasy girl at heart, so when I saw this pop up and read the description - I knew I had to read it! Now it's definitely one of my favorites, and I'm very glad it's only the start of a series I know I am going to enjoy. The world-building was fantastically done, the characters were amazing, and I absolutely LOVED the plot. The pacing was so well done that it was really hard to put it down, and may be the reason for a little bit of sleep deprivation. I can't wait to see where the author takes us in the next installment! If you love fantasy, you'll love this book.

[Book.Dragon.Page1 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This cover is so powerfull and gorgeous! It reflects the story I think! In my opinion Kailas was a strong woman from the start of the story. She fled a unhealthy situation and made a life for herself after that. Too bad that couldn't last. She grows even stronger during the rest of the story (I love a strong but realistic FMC). The worldbuilding is very wel done and I love the found family aspect of the story. This could be read as a stand alone but I can't wait to read the next book in this series!

Thanks NetGalley for the advance copy! all opinions are my own.

[John J. Delaney · Rating 5 out of 5]

A real page turner.
Black Bane, the first book of The Chronicles of Mealduth, is a great fantasy novel. It follows the story of Kailas as she leaves her home village and travels through a cursed forest to an evil rock fortress with her companions Tarin, Jermaine and Vargessa.
Lyons narrative paints a vivid picture of the land and characters which makes this book a real page turner. I can’t wait for the next instalment.

[Travis Butler · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Black Bane
By L. Lyons

This books is a needle in a haystack of the fantasy genre that is saturated with ramantasy books making it difficult to find sold fantasy novels anymore.
This is a new fantasy with the classic fantasy feel. It's a joy for me to come across books like this anymore.
Thank you to NetGalley and Twist House Books for the opportunity to read this book early in return for my honest review.

[EAMON J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dramatic and assured first book in this entrancing new series. Just when you think you know what’s happening the complications, intriguing characters and drama ramp up and lead into one of the most gripping finales I can recall reading. The heroine is complex in a world that isn’t quite what you expect and is just waiting to be explored in more detail. Fantasy fans will not be disappointed. Brilliant pacing and drama. I can’t wait to read the next instalments in this epic trilogy.

[Abigail Stephens · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a very fun read! I still feel like I'm new to epic fantasy in general, but I feel like this would be an easy place to start if you wanted to try some out too!

The storyline immediately holds your attention and was fast-paced enough to not get boring at any point. This is very plot-driven and less character-driven; however I'm expecting more character development as the series continues.

That said, I quite enjoyed it and would recommend to any fantasy reader!

[Katherine Keen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderfully descriptive story

Beautifully written story of valour and friendship. Lucy's books are always so descriptive that they transcend the reader into the depths of her imagination. A great read.

[Alison Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn’t think fantasy stories were really my thing, and from the cover this isn’t a book I would normally pick up. However, I was pleasantly surprised. The story is fast-paced, with intriguing characters and vivid descriptions, all set within a richly imagined yet believable mythical world.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Black Bane is one of the best fantasy books I have ever read. It is really well paced and concludes very nicely.

[Mik Wasiak · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book 1

[Will Lyons · Rating 5 out of 5]

Old-school fantasy done right. Flawless world-building combines with authentic character arcs to create an epic tale that lingers in the memory. The book alternates between pockets of warmth, comfort and safety and stretches of danger, tension and endurance, perfectly buoying the reader along with a balanced narrative. The same applies to the action scenes, which are infrequent enough to make them appreciated, yet developed and immersive. Kailas’ inexperience and fears make her a relatable heroine, whilst the crass Jerräk, professional Vargassa and wilful Helsene create a fine ensemble to journey with over the bitter expanses of Avellion. The menacing yet loyal Tarin is the archetypal antihero, whilst the mysterious Ancier keeps you guessing until the very end. There’s really a character for everyone in this book, which throws its emotional punches with calculated force towards the end of the book. The ambience is masterful (with the scenes at the abandoned temple genuinely eerie), and the intricacies of the Mayqsa order impressive. This is a perfect, focused, first instalment to a series - and one that’ll make you buy the others.

[Sydnie Sweeney · Rating 4 out of 5]

The prologue was a shock to the system I havent had for a while. It had me thoroughly intrigued. I appreciated that the story was straight to the point. There was no info dumping - all information was gently woven throughout the book. However there were times that I wished for just a little more information about the world, or even a list of their Gods before the prequel, as I have no idea who Scamés is and why they chose him to swear to. (For example in Powerless we know they curse "plauges" because of the plague that wiped out much of the population)

The story slowed down about 50% in but quickly picked back up as she armored up and prepared for her adventure. The action read just as intense as Sam and Frodo's journey in The Lord of the Rings and had my heart pounding for our team of heros. It was a very fast paced read that would fill the niche of action, adventure, hero/heroine, good vs. evil, etc. It's a wonderful standalone but I am selfishly eager for a book 2 staring our main girl. and maybe Tarin making a back from the dead and had to journey to find her again comeback?!